Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy period, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is lively, providing a variety of housing options and communities. Students have an array of choices, ranging from student residences to private lodgings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport connections.
During my search for a place, I wanted a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can incur expenses of up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced university travel costs. London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground, with fares fluctuating according to distance and the fare structures of train companies. Central London tends to be expensive due to its key attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and considerably cut our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is more difficult with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. The various ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home nations. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End provides Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence, take advantage of London’s diverse housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.